Nearly 150 Japanese traditional dolls are on display at the Museum ofthe Cultures of Vietnam’s Ethnic Groups in the northern city of ThaiNguyen as part of activities to celebrate the 40th anniversary ofVietnam-Japan diplomatic ties and greet International Children’s Dayon June 1.

The exhibition, open from May 28 to June 30,introduces Edo-Kimekomi dolls and some other types of dolls used in theBaby Girl Festival, known as Hina Matsuri.
 
It has attractedmany local visitors who want to enjoy Japanese heritage and culturethrough skillfully made traditional dolls.

Severalsub-activities will highlight the event such as Origami art performance,and Kinomo and Yukata Try-on, which give visitors a real experience ofJapanese culture. Visitors can also join a class to learn how to maketraditional dolls organised by the Sachiei Doll Association.

Dolls have been a part of everyday life in Japan since ancienttimes. They reflect the customs of Japan and the aspirations of itspeople, possess distinctive regional attitudes, and over the centurieshave developed in many diverse forms.

Kimekomi dolls, whichare made of willow-wood and decorated with cloth scraps, were first madein the Japanese ancient capital, Kyoto , in the 17th century. Thehand-made dolls are believed to drive away devils and disease whileprotecting old people and children.-VNA